Maple Leafs facing criticism for roster management as they stunt development of key players
Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
The Toronto Maple Leafs, who will not make the playoffs this year for the first time in a decade, are facing even more criticism for their roster management choices that are stunting the growth of some of their key players.
The Toronto Maple Leafs confirmed through head coach Craig Berube that Calle Jarnkrok, who missed their recent 5-2 loss to the divisional foe Boston Bruins, is coming back into the lineup and that they hadn't yet decided who was coming out for him.
But is Jarnkrok just taking up space at this point with no long term future in a Maple Leafs sweater?
Per a new report from analyst Adam Wylde, the Maple Leafs are likely going to lose depth forward Calle Jarnkrok to a contract overseas, meaning that if true, he's essentially taking away a roster spot from a young player in the minors who could be getting valuable NHL experience for next year.
It was never confirmed but it's been rumoured since the beginning of the year that Jarnkrok had a deal in place in Europe for the end of this season
Cool - good for him, don't mind that.
What is annoying is seeing him played game after game when they could be trying others. - Adam Wylde
Cool - good for him, don't mind that.
What is annoying is seeing him played game after game when they could be trying others. - Adam Wylde
So far this year, Jarnkrok has just eight points (6G, 2A) in 47 games played.
Players like Michael Pezzetta are under contract for next year, but watching from the press box in lieu of a player who already has his mind elsewhere.
Calle Jarnkrok's Time With The Maple Leafs Could End Soon
Jarnkrok has been with the Maple Leafs since signing with the team in 2022 after a short time with the Calgary Flames, helping them advance to the Western Conference Semifinal.
He played the bulk of his career in a Nashville Predators sweater before being claimed by the Seattle Kraken in the 2021 NHL Expansion Draft.
There were also reports that the Maple Leafs were trying to trade Jarnkrok in 2024.
In 765 career NHL games, Jarnkrok has 316 points (143G, 173A).
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